Regardless of the mode of delivery, represent a guide to the relative teaching time and student effort required to successfully achieve a particular competency/module. This may include not only scheduled classes or workplace visits but also the amount of effort required to undertake, evaluate and complete all assessment requirements, including any non-classroom activities.

Pre-requisites and Co-requisites

there are no pre-requisites or co-requisites for this course

Course Description

This unit of competency covers the ability to set up a light microscope for optimum resolution, to prepare routine samples and to observe, identify and report sample characteristics. There will be 16 hours of scheduled classes in the laboratory to practise your technical skills and the remaining hours are for you to engage with the online learning materials provided and complete self assessment.

National Codes, Titles, Elements and Performance Criteria

National Element Code & Title:

MSL973007A Perform microscopic examination

Element:

1. Interpret test requirements

Performance Criteria:

Review test request to identify samples to be tested, test method and equipment involved
Identify hazards associated with the sample, preparation methods and equipment and implement enterprise control measures

Element:

2. Set up work area for preparation and examination of samples

Performance Criteria:

Collect equipment and arrange the workspace so that equipment can be used safely and efficiently
Perform pre-use and safety checks to ensure equipment is fit for purpose and report faulty or unsafe equipment to appropriate personnel

Element:

3. Prepare samples for examination

Performance Criteria:

Log and label samples according to enterprise procedures to ensure traceability
Check suitability of the original and prepared sample for the examination and report unsuitable samples to appropriate personnel
Prepare and store the sample for examination following enterprise methods

Element:

4. Set up and use a light microscope

Performance Criteria:

Set up the light path to optimise resolution
Select the appropriate objectives and filter for the sample being examined
Ensure that the lenses are clean
Adjust settings and alignment of the light path to optimise performance
Place sample correctly on the stage

Element:

5. Observe, identify and report sample characteristics

Performance Criteria:

5.1 Recognise and identify significant sample characteristics
5.2 Perform required calculations accurately
5.3 Prepare and view control samples and check that results are consistent with expected values
5.4 Identify and report out of specification or atypical results promptly to appropriate personnel
5.5 Record and report data in accordance with enterprise procedures

Element:

6. Maintain a safe work environment

Performance Criteria:

6.1. Ensure safety and minimise cross-contamination through the use of personal protective clothing and safety equipment
6.2. Handle all samples and equipment in accordance with enterprise safety protocols
6.3. Clean up spills using appropriate techniques to protect personnel, work area and environment
6.4. Minimise generation of waste and environmental impacts
6.5. Collect and dispose of all wastes safely
6.6. Report hazards and incidents to designated personnel using enterprise procedures

Log book records and questions to be satisfactory- submitted week 8. on test day

On line test to be passed week 8 (8.4.13)

Satisfactory performance of laboratory competencies. These may be assessed during classes and finally at practical assessment 18.3.13 or 25.3.13

All assessment types must be passed to pass this course

Assessment Matrix

Other Information

80% of prac sessions need to be attended to pass this course.

This is pass only course- no higher grading available

To pass the course you need to pass, on average, each type of assessment (tests, reports, assignments)
Students must attend at least 80% of practical classes. If you miss a prac class you should provide a copy of your medical certificate or other evidence (court appearance, funeral notice, statutory declaration) to the teacher.

Extension of time for submission of assessable work-

A student may apply for an extension of up to 7 days from the original due date. They must lodge the application form (available on the web) at least the day before the due date. The application is lodged with the School Admin Office on Level 6, Bdg 51

Students requiring longer extensions must apply for Special Consideration (form available on the Web)

For missed assessments such as tests- you (& your doctor if you are sick) must fill out a special consideration form. This form must be lodged at the HUB or online with supporting evidence (eg medical certificate), prior to, or within, 48 hours of the scheduled time of examination.